5 Ways to Re-Charge Your Engine

We often talk about the benefits of exercise. But how else can you re-charge your engine to stay fit mentally and physically?

On vacation last week I found several great ways to re-charge. Here are some of my favorites:

  • Wake up naturally. Wow, I was able to score 3 days with no alarms, schedules, or time commitments. It’s amazing how good you feel when you can wake up naturally. Find a day where you can wake up well rested, naturally.
  • Water has a great way of relaxing you.  Paddleboarding through the mangroves in the Caribbean was a great place for me to relax the brain … and actually get some exercise.  Go to the lakefront, charter a fishing trip, or even canoe in City Park. Find some nature.
  • I spent seven days with limited TV and phone. Imagine the freedom. Find a way to turn off your television and cell phone. Even if for 30 minutes.
  • Just write! Whether in a journal, a letter to yourself or a loved one, writing helps clear your mind, and re-focus what’s important. I wrote letters to my wife, parents, and children. Great experience!
  • Schedule some quiet time. A hammock, on a sandy beach, and a warm breeze was a favorite place for me. Whether you nap, read, or listen to the wind. Find some quiet time in your day.

Vacations provide great opportunities for rest and relaxation. Unfortunately, vacations are often to few and to far in between. But with a little attention you can find some of the same benefits right in your back yard.

Let us know how you re-charge your engine?

Start a Successful Walking Program

Tip: Keep moving. Walking keeps bones strong & health intact. Helps your systems function better. – Judith C., PT, DPT, from MD

Walking is an excellent way to get back into exercise.

To get started answer the following questions:

  • Why do you want to walk?
  • What benefits are you looking for by walking?

These answers will help you establish some concrete, specific goals. Goals like I will walk the Crescent City Classic this coming year. Or I will be able to walk 3 miles in 40 minutes by Christmas. Write the goals down and refer back to them often to keep you on track
Steps to Follow:

  1. If you have been relatively inactive, see your physician for a check up.
  2. Generally, start conservatively. Walking at a comfortable pace for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Build the habit of walking, by scheduling walks on your calendar. Start with 2-3 times per week.
  4. Find a friend to walk with. This will keep you accountable, challenged and is more fun.
  5. Where a pedometer. A pedometer will help you track your progress and keep you motivated.

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends:

  1. participate in a walk or other moderate intensity exercise for 150 minutes or more a week for health benefits.
  2. For weight loss, 250 minutes or more of moderate-intensity activity is recommended per week.

For more information on starting a walking or training program, like us on Facebook , follow us on Twitter, or contact our office.